Pakistan Railways Begins Phased Work on New Railway Lines; Nokundi-Sibi Upgrade to Start in April

Lahore: Pakistan Railways has initiated phased work on new railway line projects, marking a significant step toward improving connectivity and economic development. According to information obtained by Express News, the Nokundi-Sibi railway upgrade in Balochistan is expected to open new avenues for trade and employment in the region.

The $400 million, 600-kilometer-long Nokundi-Sibi railway upgrade is scheduled to begin in April 2026, with a projected completion timeline of three years. The project aims to strengthen economic growth and trade links in Balochistan.

Under the project, imported-grade welded rails will be laid, capable of supporting heavy freight trains at speeds of up to 100 kilometers per hour. Travel time between Sibi and Chaghi is expected to be reduced from 5–6 hours to just 2.5–3 hours, significantly enhancing regional connectivity.

This upgrade is part of Pakistan Railways’ broader strategy to modernize its network and improve transportation efficiency across the country.